Summer is the time for long-awaited vacations, camp for kids, graduations, weddings, and backyard BBQs. But with record-high inflation and gas charges nearing $6 a gallon in some parts of the country, most people are looking for ways to save on expenses. Here are 9 tips that may help you save money this summer, so you can have fun without depleting your bank account.

Save money on summer activities.

1. Save big by skipping the theme parks.

A one-day ticket price for a single theme park at Disney World (there are four separate parks) runs $109. And that doesn’t even include parking, meals, souvenirs, or lodging. Depending on how many people you’re vacationing with, you could save thousands by visiting one of the country’s national parks instead. Take the money you’ve saved and add to your emergency savings with a Popular Bank savings account.

2. Consider a “staycation”.

With gas prices skyrocketing daily, consider staying close to home this summer to save. Maybe grab a few tents and camp out in your backyard with the kids, go on short day trips to the beach or visit low-cost museums.

3. Look for neighborhood events.

When looking for ways to save money this summer, seek out free outdoor concerts, fairs, parades or community events. Check out your city’s events calendar for a list of options that will entertain you and save you money in the process.

Save money at home.

4. Install a programmable thermostat.

A programmable thermostat is a great addition to the home year-round. The US Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat 7 to 10 degrees warmer for at least eight hours a day to save you up to 10% off your cooling bill. 

5. Close your windows, blinds, and curtains.

When it’s hot outside, don’t waste your cool air conditioning by leaving your windows open. Also, another tip to save money this summer is to close western-facing blinds and curtains to keep the warm sunlight from heating up the house.

6. Keep vents and filters clean.

Clean your air vents at least once a year to keep them working at optimum efficiency and increase the life of your HVAC system. Additionally, Energy.gov estimates that replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can reduce your unit’s energy consumption by between 5% to 15%.

7. Buy a water filter.

It’s important to stay hydrated in the hot summer months. Instead of spending a dollar or two, try to save money this summer by grabbing a disposable plastic bottle of water. Then, fill it up with filtered tap water for inexpensive water any time.

Make extra spending money.

8. Rent out your house on Airbnb or VRBO.

If you do end up leaving town for a week or more, earn some extra money by listing your home on any of the vacation rental sites. Instead of sitting vacant, make your home work for you.

9. Hold a yard sale.

If you didn’t get around to doing any spring cleaning, take the time to declutter and clear the garage. Remember, people love a bargain. You’d be surprised how much you can bring in, often $100 or more, simply by selling your old things.

Enjoying the summer doesn’t have to be expensive. Learn more from Popular Bank about how to make your money work for you, and start saving today.